Mogadishu, SONNA – The Federal Government of Somalia warmly welcomed Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari during an official reception ceremony at the General Kaahiye Police Academy in Mogadishu. Somali Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail and Police Commander Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi hosted the high-level delegation, which was greeted with an honor guard display by Somali police forces. The ceremony featured an exchange of commemorative gifts, including medals of honor and traditional Somali cultural items, symbolizing the strengthening ties between the two nations.
Discussions during the visit centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation in key security areas, particularly police training programs, counterterrorism strategies, migration management, and institutional capacity building. Security Minister Ismail emphasized the importance of Iraq’s experience in post-conflict security sector reform for Somalia’s ongoing stabilization efforts. The Iraqi delegation expressed Baghdad’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s security modernization initiatives, with Minister Al-Shammari praising the progress made by Somali forces.
This high-profile engagement shows Somalia’s strategic efforts to build international security partnerships as it continues to combat extremist threats while professionalizing its law enforcement institutions. The visit marks a significant step in deepening Iraq-Somalia relations, with both nations pledging to expand collaboration on shared security challenges. Authorities indicated that follow-up meetings would be scheduled to translate these discussions into concrete joint initiatives.
